Preventive Dentistry

Bad Breath

Bad breath, clinically called halitosis, is a common concern, and most people will suffer from it at some point in their life. Many things can contribute to bad breath, the food we eat – termed transient halitosis or more seriously, chronic halitosis – which may be caused by infection or gum disease, and is a long term problem needing professional fluoride treatment.

Possible causes of bad breath:

Diet

Smoking

Oral hygiene (poor brushing and flossing technique)

Reduced saliva (dry mouth)

Medications

Medical conditions

Reflux and stomach problems

Volatile sulphur compounds

Volatile sulphur compound

Volatile sulphur compounds are the waste products produced by the oral bacteria in our mouth, the most common source being produced at the back of the tongue, which may have a white coating on it. The thickness of this coating can be used as a gauge for the severity of halitosis.

One of or a combination of the above can contribute to breath problems and there are many solutions. Most mouthwashes and mints will mask the odour temporarily but until the cause is diagnosed and treated correctly you may find that your bad breath will persist.

Did you know:

Garlic can continue to cause bad breath even when there is no trace left in your mouth due to the absorption of the active ingredient into the blood stream which is expelled by your lungs.

Our hygienists are well trained to talk to you and help with this embarrassing situation discreetly.